World’s First ‘Ladies Special’ Suburban in Mumbai Turns 25

Terming the train a “milestone”, the Western Railways said it was a boon for women commuters.

Western Railways started the exclusive train service for women commuters on May 5, 1992. (Photo Courtesy: Twitter/@RailMinIndia)

The world's first "ladies special" suburban train on Friday competed 25 years and the Western Railway (WR), which started the service, termed it a "milestone" in its long journey.

The first of its kind in the world, WR started the train exclusively for women commuters on 5 May 1992.

The service, started between Churchgate and Borivali and later extended to Virar, was well-received by the commuters. Prior to its launch, women commuters were forced to travel in cramped regular ladies compartments, an official said.

Since then, the train has been serving thousands of women commuters daily.

The WR, which came into existence on 5 November 1951, said it was a boon for women commuters.

The 1990s saw immense industrial and commercial growth towards the southern side of Mumbai and also an increase in number of working women. The ladies’ special came as a boon for women who could commute more comfortably and safely.

Ravinder Bhakar, Chief Public Relations Officer, WR

At present, the WR operates eight ladies special services daily, divided equally during the morning and evening peak hours between the Up and Down lines. Under the system, any lady commuter can directly contact the train guard in case of an emergency.

Ravinder Bhakar, Chief Public Relations Officer, WR